A group effort

November 4, 2012

On Oct. 26, my wife Aggie and myself were presented with a beautiful award in appreciation of our work on the sheltered workshop Spring Fling Dance Party, which we chair every year for the Weirton Kiwanis Club.

We were caught by surprise and accepted the award and actually were speechless. This party has been a labor of love for both of us, and we certainly have a lot of help. We come home every night after it's all over and even though we're tired, we both experience a real sense of accomplishment and sleep extremely well. We are already making plans for next year, and we have some surprises for everyone, the date is April 16.

We would like to acknowledge a lot of the people who have helped us over the years, first we thank the Kiwanis for starting this party some 20 years ago. This organization is a great example of helping kids and no politics, just working from the heart. I thank my wife for getting me involved in the dance.

Scott Feist from Froggy, who provides the music. Scott has been there longer than Aggie and me. Rick and Deb Witkowski; Mr. Samoraj and the Weir High Key Club; Lisa, Heather and Ray of Wyngate, they provide all the food; Nino and the Serbian American Culture Center and staff; Weirton Woman's Club; Mayor George Kondik provides the beverages; Builders Club; Weirton Madonna High School students; Becky Anderson and Melanie Frangos; Make-a-Wish Committee; Ron and Tina Greer; Ron and Joanne Sekersky; Kris, Jordan, Tyler and Sarah Taflan; Lainie, Zach and Lucas Herrington; Maria Monezis; Wesbanco ladies, Sue, Donna and Terri; Miki Marino; Vic Sciarrino for videos;

The Joseph Sisters; Knights of Columbus; Hancock County Workshop Board; The Weirton Daily Times; WTOV-TV; members of Kiwanis; Maria Canella and Kelly, Scott and Jan Hicks; all the parents who get everyone there on time; the Weir High Class of 1957 for setting a great example for me; and, finally, Sam Kusic who, through his generosity, we have been able to make all the clients happy.

We are proud to be a small part of a great family community and hope we have not forgotten anyone.